How to Design Sheet Metal Mechanisms

Die tools shape sheet metal mechanisms based on the desired design.

Manufactures create sheet metal mechanisms to be used as parts and tools. These parts are shipped to factories that use them in equipment or other products that are later sold to consumers. To create these mechanisms, the sheet metal must first be cut or pressed into an indented shape from the solid sheet. It becomes shaped into the desired design by using a die and a stamping press.

Things You'll Need

• Stretch clamps
• Stamping press
• Die blank

Instructions

1. Place the sheet metal into the two clamps. Secure the die with the desired design into the stamp press.

2. Operate the stretch clamps to stretch the sheet metal. Set the controls for the stamp press to lower the die. Push the die into the sheet metal blank to cut out the design.

3. Press the die into a blank model to indent the sheet metal into a desired design. Remove the clamps and the sheet metal mechanism from the stamping press.

Tips & Warnings

• Some stamping processes require the sheet metal to be pressed into the die for shaping. Ensure that the sheet metal is clamped securely to prevent moving and a ruined casting.

References

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Sequential Setup Mechanism Design for a Reconfigurable Sheet Metal Forming Die
• Simtech: Introduction to Sheet Metal Forming Processes